A curved mirror is used to focus infrared heat onto a match, causing it to burn.
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Tips
The focal point of the mirror is about 9 cm from
center.
Place infrared heat source such that the ball on the string just reaches the white square. Turn the heater on and let it preheat for several minutes. Place the match in the dowel and wait 1-2 minutes for the match to ignite.
Note that the heater may need to be moved closer if the room is particularly drafty.